Tater Tot Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy tater tots – this casserole is comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 Brown ground beef in a skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Drain fat if necessary. Stir in onions if using.
- 3 In a large bowl, mix the soups and milk until smooth. Stir in cooked beef and cheese.
- 4 Spread a third of the tater tots in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Add half the beef mixture, another third of the tots, remaining beef mixture, and top with the rest of the tots.
- 5 Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until bubbly and tots are golden brown.
- 6 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Tips
- For extra flavor, add garlic powder or paprika to the beef while browning.
- Use a mix of cheeses for added richness.
- Ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
- Substitute ground pork for a richer taste.
- Cover with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to prevent tots from browning too quickly.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot. Freezes well for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad.
- Pair with warm dinner rolls.
- Add a side of steamed broccoli.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Try cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce.
Can I use fresh tater tots?
Absolutely, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze it unbaked, then bake straight from the freezer with an extra 10-15 minutes.
How do I prevent the tater tots from getting soggy?
Avoid overmixing the beef mixture and don't overcrowd the dish.